Pipeline Safety: Plastic Pipe Rule, 29263-29277 [2015-12113]

Agencies

• Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
• DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 98 (Thursday, May 21, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 29263-29277]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-12113]



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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

49 CFR Part 192

[Docket No. PHMSA-2014-0098]
RIN 2137-AE93


Pipeline Safety: Plastic Pipe Rule

AGENCY: Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), 
Department of Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: PHMSA is proposing to amend the natural and other gas pipeline 
safety regulations (49 CFR part 192) to address regulatory requirements 
involving plastic piping systems used in gas services. These proposed 
amendments are intended to correct errors, address inconsistencies, and 
respond to petitions for rulemaking. The requirements in several 
subject matter areas are affected, including incorporation of tracking 
and traceability provisions; design factor for polyethylene (PE) pipe; 
more stringent mechanical fitting requirements; updated and additional 
regulations for risers; expanded use of Polyamide-11 (PA-11) 
thermoplastic pipe; incorporation of newer Polyamide-12 (PA-12) 
thermoplastic pipe; and incorporation of updated and additional 
standards for fittings.

DATES: Submit comments on or before July 31, 2015.

ADDRESSES: Comments should reference Docket No. PHMSA-2014-0098 and may 
be submitted in the following ways:
     E-Gov Web site: https://www.regulations.gov. This Web site 
allows the public to enter comments on any Federal Register notice 
issued by any agency. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
     Mail: Docket Management System: U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: DOT Docket Management System, West Building 
Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 
20590-0001 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays.
    Instructions: If you submit your comments by mail, please submit 
two copies. To receive confirmation that PHMSA received your comments, 
include a self-addressed stamped postcard.

    Note: Comments are posted without changes or edits to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided. 
There is a privacy statement published on https://www.regulations.gov.

Privacy Act Statement

    In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the 
public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these 
comments, without edit, including any personal information the 
commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system 
of records notice (DOT/ALL-14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at 
www.dot.gov/privacy.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
    General Information: Cameron Satterthwaite, Transportation 
Specialist, by telephone at 202-366-1319, or by electronic mail at 
cameron.satterthwaite@dot.gov.
    Technical Questions: Max Kieba, General Engineer, by telephone at 
202-493-0595, or by electronic mail at max.kieba@dot.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background

    The use and availability of plastic pipe have changed over the 
years with technological innovations in the products and best practices 
used in plastic pipe installations. Progress in the design and 
manufacture of plastic pipe and components has resulted in materials 
with higher strength characteristics. Manufacturers are instituting new 
practices related to traceability. Operators are incorporating best 
practices. Together, these measures have the potential to improve with 
pipeline safety and integrity. Some of these strides have been 
highlighted in petitions that are detailed below. The pipeline safety 
regulations have not stayed current with some of these products; this 
rulemaking is an effort to propose a number of revisions to incorporate 
these changes in the interest of pipeline safety.
    PHMSA has received several rulemaking petitions involving plastic 
pipe. Copies of these petitions have been placed in the docket (PHMSA-
2014-0098) for this rulemaking in addition to the docket that may have 
been initially established for the petition. This proposed rule will 
address the following petitions:
     American Gas Association (AGA)--(Docket No. PHMSA 2010-
0011)--Petition to increase design factor 0.32 to 0.4 and incorporate 
updated ASTM D2513 (standard for Polyethylene (PE) pipe).
     Evonik Industries (Evonik) and UBE Industries (UBE)--
(Docket No. PHMSA 2010-0009)--Petition to allow use of Polyamide (PA-
12) pipe.
     Arkema--(Docket No. PHMSA 2013-0227)--Petition to allow 
use of Polyamide (PA-11) pipe at higher pressures.
     Gas Piping Technology Committee (GPTC)--Petition to allow 
above-ground, encased plastic pipe for regulator and metering stations.
    While there has been much progress, both Federal and State 
inspectors, have noticed some issues related to the installation of 
plastic pipe that should be addressed in the pipeline safety 
regulations. In an effort to address these issues, respond to petitions 
and update the regulations with respect to the products and practices 
used in plastic pipe system without compromising safety, PHMSA is 
proposing revisions to the Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations (PSR) in 
49 CFR part 192. This focus will limit these proposals to plastic 
pipelines in gas service and subsequently to new, repaired, and 
replaced pipes. These issues are addressed and detailed below as 
follows:

A. Tracking and Traceability
B. Design Factor for PE
C. Expanded use of PA-11
D. Incorporation of PA-12
E. Risers
F. Fittings
G. Plastic Pipe Installation
    G.1.--Installation by Trenchless Excavation (Sec. Sec.  192.3, 
192.329, and 192.376)
    G.2.--Joining Plastic Pipe (Sec.  192.281)
    G.3.--Qualifying Joining Procedures (Sec.  192.283)
    G.4.--Qualifying Persons To Make Joints (Sec.  192.285)
    G.5.--Bends (Sec.  192.313)
    G.6.--Installation of Plastic Pipe (Sec.  192.321)
    G.7.--Service Lines; General Requirements for Connections to 
Main Piping (Sec.  192.367)
    G.8.--Equipment Maintenance; Plastic Pipe Joining (Sec.  
192.756)
H. Repairs
    H.1.--Repair of Plastic Pipe--Gouges (Sec.  192.311)
    H.2.--Leak Repair Clamps (Sec.  192.720)
I. General Provisions
    I.1.--Incorporation by Reference (Sec.  192.7)
    I.2.--Plastic Pipe Material (Sec.  192.59)
    I.3.--Plastic Pipe Storage and Handling (Sec.  192.67)
    I.4.--Gathering Lines (Sec.  192.9)
    I.5.--Merger of Sections 192.121 and 192.123
    I.6.--General Design Requirements for Components (Sec.  192.143)
    I.7.--General Design Requirements for Valves (Sec.  192.145)

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    I.8.--General Design Requirements for Standard Fittings (Sec.  
192.149)
    I.9.--Test Requirements for Plastic Pipelines (Sec.  192.513)

A. Traceability and Tracking

    In many cases, the lack of adequate traceability for plastic pipe 
(i.e., appropriate markings that help identify the location of 
manufacture, lot information, size, material, pressure rating, 
temperature rating and, as appropriate, type, grade, and model, etc., 
of the pipe and components) and tracking of pipe location (i.e., a 
means of identifying the location of pipe and components within the 
pipeline) prevents operators from having enough information to identify 
systemic issues related to incidents involving plastic pipe. Further, 
the lack of this information makes it difficult for operators and 
regulators to determine whether plastic pipe or component failures are 
related to a certain type or vintage of material, specific product 
defect or design, heat/lot of the product, or whether it was produced 
by a certain manufacturer at a certain time.
    In addition, the issue can result in excessive pipe excavations due 
to an inability to locate the affected sections of pipe or fittings 
when responding to plastic pipe or component manufacturer recalls. In 
2001, the National Association of Pipeline Safety Representatives 
(NAPSR), a non-profit organization of State pipeline safety personnel 
that promotes pipeline safety in the United States and its territories, 
also noted this issue in its RESOLUTION NO. 2001-2-SR-2-01 (Resolution 
SR-2-01). In its Resolution, NAPSR referred to accident investigations 
where insufficient data regarding the pipe material (i.e., date of 
manufacture and other relevant information) had proven to be an 
obstacle in determining the cause or origin of an incident. NAPSR also 
recognized that existing pipe, fittings, and components often do not 
maintain their markings for a sufficient period of time to provide 
useful tracking and traceability information. Therefore, NAPSR 
requested that PHMSA revise Sec.  192.63 (``Marking of Materials'') to 
require the marking of all pipe and components to ensure identification 
for a period of 50 years or the life of the pipeline. NAPSR also 
expressed the view that the marking of plastic pipe, fittings, and 
components will benefit the industry and public by allowing the 
identification of problems and proactively mitigating future problems 
through such identification.
    In an effort to address the concerns mentioned above and to address 
the resolution from NAPSR, PHMSA proposes new requirements for tracking 
and traceability of plastic pipe and components that extend beyond 
marking alone. To set the framework for tracking and traceability, 
PHMSA proposes to revise Sec.  192.3 by adding definitions for 
``traceability information'' and ``tracking information.'' It is 
PHMSA's intent that all operators have methods to identify the location 
of pipe, the person who joined the pipe, and components within the 
pipeline (i.e., tracking). PHMSA also proposes that operators be 
required to identify and document the location of pipe manufacture, 
production, lot information, size, material, pressure rating, 
temperature rating, and, as appropriate, other information such as 
type, grade, and model (i.e., traceability). In order to facilitate 
compliance, PHMSA proposes to revise Sec.  192.63 to require operators 
to adopt the tracking and traceability requirements in ASTM F2897-11a, 
``Standard Specification for Tracking and Traceability Encoding System 
of Natural Gas Distribution Components (Pipe, Tubing, Fittings, Valves, 
and Appurtenances)'' (Standard). Note that the Standard only specifies 
requirements for information that marks pipe and components with a 16-
digit code to help identify characteristics such as manufacturer, 
material type, lot code, etc. While the Standard gives some examples of 
the types of markings, such as barcodes, 2D-Data matrix, or a more 
conventional print line, it does not provide the actual means of 
marking or affixing the code to the components, the means of reading 
and transferring the data or codes, and the durability of the markings.
    In response to the 2001 NAPSR Resolution, PHMSA also proposes to 
clarify Sec.  192.63 by expressly providing that specification and 
traceability markings on plastic pipe be legible, visible, and 
permanent in accordance with the pipe's listed specification. The 
proposed revisions in Sec.  192.63 also reference the recordkeeping 
requirements for these markings in Sec. Sec.  192.321(k) and 
192.375(d). Section 192.321 applies to the installation of plastic pipe 
used for transmission lines and mains, and Sec.  192.375 contains 
requirements for plastic service lines.
    PHMSA further proposes to add a new paragraph (k) to Sec.  192.321 
and a new paragraph (d) to Sec.  192.375 to require operators to 
maintain tracking and traceability information (as defined in Sec.  
192.3) records for the life of the pipeline. PHMSA believes this 
performance-based approach will allow for the use of other methods and 
technologies. For instance, during construction or repair, operators 
may choose to use a Global Positioning System (GPS) in combination with 
a barcode reader to help mark the location or identify other features 
of the pipe or component. Other operators without the means to purchase 
such equipment may choose to collect and store the information manually 
or electronically. The purpose of these proposed revisions is to enable 
operators to accurately locate and quickly identify the installed pipe 
and components in their systems when handling recalls and conducting 
failure investigations. The revisions also support the requirements in 
the distribution integrity management programs for capturing and 
retaining certain information on new pipelines for the life of the 
lines (Sec.  192.1007(a)(5)). In addition, the proposed requirement 
would also support the current plastic pipe-joiner qualification 
requirements in Sec.  192.285.

B. Design Factor of PE

    PHMSA received petitions from the American Gas Association (AGA) 
and the Gas Piping Technology Committee (GPTC) to increase the design 
factor for PE pipe from 0.32 to 0.40 in Sec.  192.121. The allowable 
design pressure for plastic is based on a number of factors, including 
the stress rating of the material (interpolated from a Hydrostatic 
Design Basis (HDB) rating), wall thickness and diameter or standard 
dimension ratio (SDR), and design factor. The allowable design factor 
is currently 0.32 for plastics. The exception to this design factor 
limitation applies to Polyamide-11 pipe (PA-11) produced after January 
23, 2009, meeting certain conditions, which would allow the design 
factor to increase to 0.40. The petitions to allow for a 0.40 design 
factor for PE pipe are based on research and technical justifications 
performed by the Gas Technology Institute (GTI) and include certain 
limitations by type of material and wall thickness. Since design 
pressure for plastic pipe is based on a number of variables, including 
design factor and wall thickness, an increase in design factor would 
allow for the use of PE pipe with smaller wall thicknesses while 
limited to the allowable pressures determined in Sec.  192.121 if the 
pipe is made from higher quality material and meets other limitations 
mentioned in the petitions. Furthermore, a design factor of 0.40 is 
already allowed in Sec.  192.121 for PA-11 pipe with certain 
limitations. Upon review, PHMSA proposes to adopt this provision into 
the PSR. The details of the proposal are

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specified below under ``G. Plastic Pipe Installation.''

C. Expanded Use of PA-11

    Polyamide-11, also referred to as Nylon 11, is a relatively newer 
type of plastic material with a different structure (nylon- or amide-
based) compared to other common plastic materials in use such as 
Polyethylene (ethylene-based). Similar to PE materials with different 
types, names, or material designation codes such as PE3408 and PE4710, 
Polyamides or Nylon materials have different types such as PA-6 or 
Nylon 6, or relatively newer types discussed in this rulemaking like 
PA-11 or PA-12, with material designation codes such as PA32312 or 
PA32316. There are a number of differences amongst the kinds of 
plastics and pros and cons for each, but, at a high level, Polyamides 
such as PA-11 have a higher strength or hydrostatic design basis (HDB) 
rating compared to PE materials. The HDB is a reflection of a plastic 
pipe's ability to resist internal pressure over long periods of time. 
The Hydrostatic Stress Board of the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) 
recommends and lists a HDB for a plastic pipe material based on testing 
of the material using the industry accepted test methods published by 
ASTM International. As a result of a higher HDB rating, materials like 
PA-11 can typically be designed and operated at higher pressures. On 
December 24, 2008 (73 FR 79005), PHMSA issued a final rule to allow the 
use of a new thermoplastic pipe made from Polyamide-11 (PA-11) with 
certain limitations for pressure (up to 200 psig), diameter (up to 4-
inch nominal pipe size), and an SDR of 11 and below (i.e., thicker wall 
pipe). This final rule was in response to a petition from Arkema, a 
manufacturer of PA-11 pipe. On November 11, 2013, Arkema, the sole 
current producer of PA-11, sent a petition (Docket No. PHMSA-2013-0262) 
to PHMSA to allow PA-11 to be used for pressures up to 250 psig and 
pipe diameters up to 6-inch nominal pipe size, with limitations on wall 
thickness depending on diameter. Arkema is also petitioning PHMSA to 
allow for arithmetic interpolation in the allowable pressure equation 
for PA-11 pipe by removing the note in Sec.  192.121 that currently 
does not allow arithmetic interpolation for PA-11 pipe. Arkema further 
petitioned PHMSA to incorporate the following standards related to PA-
11:
     ASTM F2945-12a, Standard Specification for (PA-11) Gas 
Pressure Pipe, Tubing and Fittings;
     ASTM/ANSI F2600-09, Standard Specification for 
Electrofusion Type PA-11 Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled PA-11 
Pipe and Tubing;
     ASTM/ANSI F1973-13, Standard Specification for Factory 
Assembled Anodeless Risers and Transition Fittings in PE and PA-11 and 
PA-12 Fuel Gas Distribution Systems;
     ASTM/ANSI F2145-13, Standard Specification for PA-11 and 
PA-12 Mechanical Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter Controlled PA-11 
and PA-12 Pipe and Tubing;
     ASTM/ANSI F1948-12, Standard Specification for Metallic 
Mechanical Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter Controlled 
Thermoplastic Gas Distribution Pipe and Tubing; and
     ASME/ANSI B16.40-08, Manually Operated Thermoplastic Gas 
Shutoffs and Valves in Gas Distribution Systems.
    As justification for its petition, Arkema points to the many years 
of testing and evaluation of PA-11 at operating pressures greater than 
100 psig on projects under special permit and non-DOT jurisdictional 
pipelines that date back to 1999. Arkema also references the successful 
implementation of Sec.  192.123(f), which allows for the use of PA-11 
produced after January 23, 2009, at design pressures up to 200 psig 
under certain conditions. Although Arkema did not reference any 
projects that utilize PA-11 between 200 and 250 psig, Arkema believes 
an increase in allowable pressures up to 250 psig is justified through 
interpolation of a Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB) of 3,150 psi for PA-
11, as listed in Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) TR4 (previous code 
limitations were based on an HDB of 2,500 psi for PA-11).
    PHMSA agrees with Arkema's rationale of using the interpolation of 
the HDB listings for PA-11 to substantiate design pressures up to 250 
psig. HDB listings are established in accordance with PPI TR-3, 
``Policies and Procedures for Developing Hydrostatic Design Basis 
(HDB), Strength Design Basis (SDB), Pressure Design Basis (PDB) or 
Minimum Required Strength (MRS) Ratings for Thermoplastic Piping 
Materials or Pipe,'' which is incorporated by reference in Sec.  192.7. 
As detailed in Sec.  192.121, the design pressure (P) can be calculated 
by the equation P = (2S/(SDR - 1)) x (DF), where S is the HDB rating, 
SDR is the standard dimension ratio (the ratio of the average specified 
outside diameter to wall thickness), and DF is the design factor. If an 
HDB rating of 2,500 psi (basis for current limitation using previous 
vintage PA-11 pipe with material designation code PA32312) is used 
along with an SDR of 11 (a common value for mid-range pipe diameters) 
and a DF of 0.4 (which is currently allowed for PA-11), the resulting 
design pressure (P) would equal 200 psi, which is the current maximum 
allowable design pressure for PA-11 in part 192. If the HDB is changed 
to 3,150 psi (newer vintage PA-11 pipe with material designation code 
PA32316), and both the SDR and DF remain the same, the resulting design 
pressure would equal 252 psi, rounded down to 250 psi for a maximum 
allowable design pressure. Therefore, PHMSA proposes to revise the PSR 
to allow PA-11 pipe (PA32316) for pressures up to 250 psi, diameters up 
to 6 inches, and additional limitations on wall thickness as listed in 
the petition. PHMSA also proposes to specify that both PA32312 and 
PA32316 can be used for pressures up to 200 psi. Regarding standards 
relevant to PA-11 that Arkema petitioned to be incorporated by 
reference, PHMSA proposes to incorporate them as requested. 
Incorporating these newer standards specific to PA-11 will also allow 
PHMSA to phase out older standards incorporated by reference like ASTM 
D2513-87 and ASTM D2513-99, which covered multiple plastic materials 
including PA, PE, and others, up until ASTM D2513-09a when it became a 
PE-only standard. Another rulemaking by PHMSA incorporated ASTM D2513-
09a for PE but continued to reference ASTM D2513-87 and ASTM D2513-99 
for plastics other than PE while these other product specific standards 
were being developed. Having multiple versions of the same standard in 
this interim period has created some confusion.

D. Incorporation of PA-12

    On January 6, 2011, PA-12 pipe manufacturers (Evonik and UBE; 
Petitioners) submitted a petition to amend the PSR to allow the use of 
PA-12 pipe. Specifically, Evonik and UBE petitioned (Docket No. PHMSA-
2010-0009) PHMSA to revise Sec. Sec.  192.121 and 192.123 to:
     Allow for the use of PA-12 piping systems with a 0.40 
design factor;
     Include maximum design pressure limitations for PA-12 
piping systems of 250 psig;
     Allow a nominal pipe size of 6-inch diameters or less;
     Allow a minimum wall thickness of at least 0.90 inches, 
with additional limitations on the wall thickness, depending on 
diameter;
     Require unplasticized material;
     Limit PA-12 pipe materials to those specified in ASTM 
F2785; and
     Require PA-12 to comply with the rest of the part 192 
requirements related

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to joining, pressure testing, and appurtenances, as detailed in 
Sec. Sec.  192.281, 192.283, 192.285, and 192.513.
    In their petition, Evonik and UBE state that PA-12 material has 
been tested more than any other pipe material prior to its use and 
approval. The Petitioners also stated that the results ``amply 
validated'' the overall strength and durability of the PA-12 material 
and piping systems against known threats and failure mechanisms. Evonik 
and UBE noted in their petition that PA-12 has been granted for use 
under a special permit in the States of Montana and Mississippi. The 
petitioners also noted the development of a performance-based standard 
(ASTM F2785-09) for PA-12. The petitioners assert that this standard 
contains comprehensive performance-based requirements that would ensure 
the safe long-term performance of PA-12 pipe, tubing, and fittings.
    Upon review of the petition, PHMSA proposes to revise the PSR to 
allow the use of PA-12 pipe at pressures up to 250 psig for pipe up to 
6 inches in diameter, and to impose additional limitations on wall 
thickness as listed in the petition. These limitations would also be 
consistent with the PA-11 consideration described above. PHMSA also 
proposes to incorporate by reference ASTM F2785-12, ``Standard 
Specification for Polyamide 12 Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and 
Fittings,'' along with other standards applicable to both PA-11 and PA-
12 that are described immediately above in the section related to PA-11 
considerations and the PA-11 petition.

E. Risers

    In general, a pipeline riser is a vertical pipe that connects 
buried pipe to an aboveground component, such as a meter. In many 
cases, the riser is a transitional component that attaches a buried 
plastic pipe to a metal or a metal-encased plastic pipe (anodeless 
riser), which is connected to a gas meter. While risers are most 
commonly found connecting service lines to meter sets, risers are also 
used within distribution mains and transmission systems when entering 
or exiting small regulator stations or whenever a transition between 
buried and unburied pipe is necessary.
    The PSR do not contain specific design, construction, or 
installation requirements for risers. In 2014, the GPTC petitioned 
PHMSA to allow above-ground, encased plastic pipe at the inlet and 
outlet of regulator and metering stations if (1) the above-ground level 
part of the plastic pipe is protected against deterioration and 
external damage; (2) the plastic pipe is not used to support external 
loads; and (3) the plastic pipe is not allowed to exceed the pipe 
temperature limits at Sec.  192.123. Therefore, PHMSA proposes specific 
requirements for the design (Sec.  192.204) and construction of risers 
(Sec. Sec.  192.321(j) and 192.375(a)(2)) associated with plastic pipe. 
Further, PHMSA proposes to incorporate by reference ASTM F1973, 
``Standard Specification for Factory Assembled Anodeless Risers and 
Transition Fittings in Polyethylene (PE) and Polyamide 11 (PA11) and 
Polyamide 12 (PA12) Fuel Gas Distribution Systems'' in these new 
sections. ASTM F1973 addresses various issues such as the removal of 
burrs on metal components prior to the insertion of plastic pipe and 
other riser assembly provisions.

F. Fittings

    PHMSA and others (e.g., NTSB and certain States) have observed 
problems with mechanical fittings or joints becoming loose or pipe 
being pulled out from fittings, leading to leaks and, in certain cases, 
incidents. Failures can occur when there is inadequate restraint for 
the potential stresses on the two fitted pipes, when the couplings are 
incorrectly installed or supported, or when the coupling components 
(e.g., elastomers) degrade over time. More details on these issues are 
available in PHMSA Advisory Bulletin ADB-08-02, issued in March 2008, 
titled ``Pipeline Safety: Issues Related to Mechanical Couplings Used 
in Natural Gas Distribution Systems.'' Therefore, PHMSA is proposing 
the incorporation of a requirement to use only mechanical fittings or 
joints that are designed and tested to provide a seal plus resistance 
to lateral forces so that a large force on the connection would cause 
the pipe to yield before the joint does.
    More specifically, ASTM D2513, currently incorporated by reference 
in part 192, provides categorizations for the different mechanical 
joints, including ``[s]eal plus resistance to a force on the pipe end 
equal to or greater than that which will cause permanent deformation of 
the pipe'' (Category 1), seal only (Category 2), and seal plus pipe 
restraint to account for thermal stresses (Category 3). The Category 1 
joint is generally considered the most stringent of the three 
categories. ASTM D2513 is now a polyethylene-only standard, but other 
standards being proposed for incorporation in this NPRM and that are 
applicable to other materials, (i.e., ASTM F1924, ASTM F1948, and ASTM 
F1973) have Category 1 definitions. The definitions in each of these 
standards are slightly different in language but are still consistent 
with each other and the performance language in ASTM D2513. Some of 
these standards also point back to ASTM D2513 for PE-specific 
considerations. The regulation, as proposed, would require mechanical 
fittings, joints, or connections to provide a Category 1 joint as 
defined in ASTM F1924, ASTM F1948, and ASTM F1973 for the applicable 
material. In an effort to have consistency in language given the 
slightly different definitions in the various standards, PHMSA is 
proposing ``a seal plus resistance to a force on the pipe joint equal 
to or greater than that which will cause no less than 25% elongation of 
pipe, or the pipe fails outside the joint area if tested in accordance 
with the applicable standard.'' These revisions for Category 1 apply in 
sections such as Sec.  192.281(e) for plastic pipe joining and Sec.  
192.367 for service lines and connections to main piping and are 
described in further detail elsewhere in this document.
    In light of the proposed revisions of the PA-11 and PE regulations, 
and the introduction of PA-12, PHMSA proposes to also consider recently 
developed standards for incorporation by reference that further enhance 
pipeline safety in order to address potential safety risks. These 
proposed standards to be incorporated by reference are listed in 
``Section I. General Provisions.''

Electrically Isolated Metal Alloy Fittings in Plastic Pipe (Section 
192.455)

    Section 192.455 details external corrosion control requirements for 
buried or submerged pipe installed after July 31, 1971. Paragraph (a) 
currently requires such pipelines to have external protective coatings 
meeting the requirements of Sec.  192.461 and a cathodic protection 
system placed in operation within 1 year after construction is 
completed. However, paragraph (a) contains certain exceptions. One is 
detailed in paragraph (f) and applies to electrically isolated, metal 
alloy fittings in plastic pipelines where an operator can show by test, 
investigation, or experience in the area of application, that adequate 
corrosion control is provided by the alloy composition, and the fitting 
is designed to prevent leakage caused by corrosion pitting. For those 
fittings that do not meet the requirements of paragraph (f), cathodic 
protection and cathodic protection monitoring is required. PHMSA 
proposes to add a new paragraph (g) to require such fittings used 
within plastic pipelines be cathodically protected and monitored in

[[Page 29267]]

accordance with Sec. Sec.  192.455 and 192.465(a).

G. Plastic Pipe Installation

    PHMSA is proposing several revisions with regard to the 
installation of plastic pipe, organized topically as follows:

G.1.--Installation by Trenchless Excavation (Sections 192.3, 192.329 
and 192.376)

    The PSR do not contain detailed requirements for the installation 
of plastic pipe by trenchless excavation. PHMSA and the States are 
aware of a number of incidents related to cross-boring, where plastic 
pipe installed via trenchless excavation (e.g., directional drilling) 
has come in contact with or been installed right through another 
underground utility such as a sewer line. In an effort to improve 
pipeline and public safety and implement a consistent approach to this 
method of installation while considering industry best practices in use 
today, PHMSA proposes to add new Sec. Sec.  192.329 and 192.376 to 
detail some basic requirements. These proposals include requiring each 
operator to ensure that the path of the excavation will provide 
sufficient clearance for installation and maintenance activities from 
other underground utilities and structures. Additionally, PHMSA 
proposes to require plastic pipe and components that are pulled through 
the ground to incorporate the use of a ``weak link.'' PHMSA is 
proposing the definition of ``weak link'' in Sec.  192.3. A weak link 
is used to prevent damage to the pipeline that could be caused by 
excessive forces during the pulling process.

G.2.--Joining Plastic Pipe (Section 192.281)

    Section 192.281 details the requirements for joining plastic pipe. 
In an effort to reduce confusion and promote safety, PHMSA is proposing 
several revisions to Sec.  192.281.
    Section 192.281(b) contains requirements for solvent cement joints. 
PHMSA proposes to revise Sec.  192.281(b)(2) to specify that the 
solvent cement requirements in ASTM D2564-12 apply only to polyvinyl 
chloride (PVC) pipe. This is a clarifying revision, since PVC is the 
only material that is allowed by PSR to be joined by solvent cement.
    Section 192.281(c) contains requirements for heat-fusion joints. 
Currently, these requirements refer to only the ``pipe'' that is being 
joined. PHMSA proposes to clarify paragraph (c) to specify that the 
joining requirements apply to both the pipe and the components that are 
joined to the pipe.
    Section 192.281(e) contains requirements for mechanical joints but 
does not clearly list specific standards for the requirements. This has 
led to some inconsistencies in practices used, or the requirements were 
incorporated indirectly via another referenced standard and were not 
always clear. PHMSA proposes to add a new paragraph (e)(3) to require 
that each fitting used to make a mechanical joint meets a listed 
specification. With this requirement, PHMSA hopes to make it clearer 
that fittings and joints must meet a standard specification listed in 
the code. The standards that would apply are among the ``Other Listed 
Specifications for Components'' that are being proposed through 
revisions to Appendix B and described in more detail elsewhere in this 
document.

G.3.--Qualifying Joining Procedures (Section 192.283)

    Section 192.283 details the requirements for qualifying plastic 
pipe joining procedures. Currently, Sec.  192.283(a) specifies that 
heat fusion joints for thermoplastic pipe must be tested in accordance 
with ASTM D2513-99 for plastics other than polyethylene or with ASTM 
D2513-09a for polyethylene plastic materials. In this proposed rule, 
PHMSA is proposing to incorporate a newer version of ASTM D2513 for PE-
only materials and incorporate standards applicable to other types of 
thermoplastic pipe (i.e., PA-11, and PA-12). Therefore, PHMSA proposes 
to revise Sec.  192.283(a) to refer operators to the appropriate listed 
specification. Listed specifications are detailed in Appendix B to Part 
192.
    PHMSA also proposes to remove the current Sec.  192.283(d), which 
allows the use of pipe or fittings manufactured before July 1, 1980, if 
they are joined in accordance with procedures that the manufacturer 
certifies will produce a joint as strong as the pipe. As a number of 
advancements have been made in standards related to pipe and fittings 
since 1980, the use of newer materials manufactured in accordance with 
more current standards should be encouraged. Pipe and fittings that are 
newly installed, repaired, or replaced after the effective date of the 
rule will be required to meet newer standards. This proposed revision 
would not preclude the use of pipe or fittings manufactured prior to 
July 1, 1980, which were already installed prior to the effective date 
of the rule.

G.4.--Qualifying Persons To Make Joints (Section 192.285)

    Section 192.285 details the requirements for qualifying persons to 
make joints. PHMSA proposes to revise Sec.  192.285 to incorporate 
several revisions. Section 192.285(a)(2) currently specifies that a 
person must make a specimen joint that is subjected to the testing 
detailed in Sec.  192.285(b). PHMSA proposes to remove the testing 
details in Sec.  192.285(b) and reference ASTM F2620-12 (Standard 
Practice for Heat Fusion Joining of Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings). 
PHMSA also proposes to require operators to maintain records detailing 
the location of each joint and the person who made the joint.

G.5.--Bends (Section 192.313)

    Section 192.313 details requirements for bends and elbows, but 
currently only for steel pipe. To address bends in plastic pipe, PHMSA 
proposes to add a paragraph (d) to specify that installed plastic pipe 
may not contain bends that exceed the maximum radius specified by the 
manufacturer for the diameter of the pipe.

G.6.--Installation of Plastic Pipe (Section 192.321)

    Section 192.321 details requirements for the installation of 
plastic pipe transmission lines and mains. PHMSA is proposing several 
revisions to this section. Currently, Sec.  192.321(d) specifies that 
non-encased thermoplastic pipe must have a minimum wall thickness of 
0.090 inches, except for pipe with an outside diameter of 0.875 inches 
or less, which must have a minimum wall thickness of 0.062 inches. 
PHMSA proposes to require all plastic pipe to have a minimum wall 
thickness of 0.090 inches.
    Section 192.321(f) specifies that plastic pipe being encased must 
be inserted into the casing pipe in a manner that will protect the 
plastic, and that the leading edge of the inserted pipe must be closed 
before insertion. PHMSA proposes to specify that the plastic pipe must 
be protected from damage at both the entrance and exit of the casing 
during the installation process.
    Section 192.321(h) specifies requirements for plastic pipe 
installed on bridges. Paragraph (h)(3) contains a reference to Sec.  
192.123. Based on the proposed merging of Sec.  192.123 into Sec.  
192.121, PHMSA proposes to revise paragraph (h)(3) to replace the 
currently referenced Sec.  192.123 with Sec.  192.121.
    Although part 192 contains some requirements for backfill 
materials,

[[Page 29268]]

there are no explicit requirements for backfill material used in the 
installation of plastic pipe. PHMSA recognizes that plastic pipe 
subjected to improper backfill materials or practices could be at risk 
to damage that could impact pipeline integrity. In line with best 
practices in use today, PHMSA proposes to add a new paragraph (i) to 
Sec.  192.321 and a new paragraph (c) to Sec.  192.375 to include 
specific provisions for backfill material for plastic pipe. These 
provisions would specify that backfill material not include materials 
that could be detrimental to the pipe, such as rocks of a size 
exceeding those established through sound engineering practices. The 
provisions would also require the ground to be properly compacted 
underneath, along the sides, and for a predetermined distance above the 
installed pipe.
    PHMSA understands that there are applications that may require 
plastic mains to terminate aboveground for permanent installations. 
Currently, Sec.  192.321 does not address plastic mains which terminate 
above ground. Therefore, PHMSA proposes a new paragraph (j) to allow 
for the aboveground level termination of plastic mains under certain 
conditions.

G.7.--Service Lines; General Requirements for Connections to Main 
Piping (Section 192.367)

    Section 192.367(b) specifies requirements for compression-type 
connections to a main. As described further in the Fittings section 
above, PHMSA and others (e.g., NTSB and certain States) have observed 
problems with mechanical fittings or joints becoming loose or pipe 
being pulled out from fittings, leading to leaks and, in certain cases, 
incidents. Similar to revisions being proposed in Sec.  192.281(e) 
related to plastic pipe joining, PHMSA is proposing the incorporation 
of a requirement that connections are a Category 1 joint per applicable 
standards for different plastic materials, which is generally 
considered the most stringent of the three categories. PHMSA proposes 
to add a new paragraph (b)(3) to require mechanical connections on 
plastic pipe to be a Category 1 connection as defined by ASTM F1924, 
ASTM F1948, or ASTM F1973 for the applicable material, providing a seal 
plus resistance to a force on the pipe joint equal to or greater than 
that which will cause no less than 25% elongation of pipe, or the pipe 
fails outside the joint area if tested in accordance with the 
applicable standard.

G.8.--Equipment Maintenance; Plastic Pipe Joining (Section 192.756)

    Due to the difficulty in assessing the quality of field joints, it 
is very important for operators to use properly calibrated and 
maintained equipment. Currently, the PSR do not contain detailed 
minimum provisions for maintaining equipment used in joining plastic 
pipe. Therefore, PHMSA proposes to add a new Sec.  192.756 to include 
such requirements. These provisions would require each operator to 
maintain the applicable equipment, including measuring devices for 
joining plastic pipe, in accordance with the manufacturers' recommended 
practices or alternative procedures that have been proven by testing 
and experience. Operators would also be required to calibrate and test 
such equipment and devices and maintain records that substantiate these 
calibrations and tests. The equipment subject to these requirements 
would include, but not be limited to, fusion equipment, alignment 
equipment, facing and adaptor equipment, heater plates, and gauging 
devices. PHMSA proposes that records of all tests and calibrations, 
except those that might occur through daily verifications and 
adjustments, be maintained for the life of the pipeline.

H. Repairs

H.1.--Repair of Plastic Pipe (Gouges)

    Section 192.311 currently specifies that, for plastic pipe, each 
imperfection or damage that would impair the serviceability of plastic 
pipe must be repaired or removed. For consistency with industry best 
practices, PHMSA proposes to include a requirement for all plastic pipe 
and or components to be replaced if they have a scratch or gouge 
exceeding 10 percent of the wall thickness.

H.2.--Leak Repair Clamps

    PHMSA and States have observed issues where some operators have 
used stainless steel band clamps, intended and designed for temporary 
repairs on plastic pipe used in gas distribution, as a permanent repair 
solution. While clamps can be an effective temporary solution in 
certain situations, such as during an incident to stop the release of 
gas, PHMSA believes that these clamps should be used only as a 
temporary repair measure until the pipe can be replaced. PHMSA is also 
aware of at least one manufacturer that has issued a letter saying its 
repair clamps are intended for temporary repairs only and should be 
replaced with a more permanent solution. Therefore, PHMSA proposes the 
incorporation of a new section (Sec.  192.720) to prohibit the use of 
leak-repair clamps as a means for permanent repair on gas pipe used in 
distribution service.

I. General Provisions

    PHMSA is proposing a number of general revisions to the PSR as 
follows:

I.1. Incorporation by Reference (Section 192.7)

    Consistent with the proposed amendments in this document, PHMSA 
proposes to incorporate by reference several standards. The standards 
are identified as follows:
     ASTM D2513-12ael ``Standard Specification for Polyethylene 
(PE) Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings''--This specification 
covers requirements and test methods for material dimensions and 
tolerances, hydrostatic burst strength, chemical resistance, and rapid 
crack resistance of polyethylene pipe, tubing, and fittings for use in 
fuel gas mains and services for direct burial and reliner applications. 
The pipe and fittings covered by this specification are intended for 
use in the distribution of natural gas. Requirements for the qualifying 
of polyethylene systems for use with liquefied petroleum gas are also 
covered.
     ASTM F2785-12 ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 12 
Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings''--This specification covers 
requirements and test methods for the characterization of polyamide 12 
pipe, tubing, and fittings for use in fuel gas mains and services for 
direct burial and reliner applications. The pipe and fittings covered 
by this specification are intended for use in the distribution of 
natural gas.
     ASTM F2945-12a ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 11 
Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings'' 11/27/2012.--This 
specification covers requirements and test methods for the 
characterization of polyamide 11 pipe, tubing, and fittings for use in 
fuel gas piping.
     ASTM F2620-12 ``Standard Practice for Heat Fusion Joining 
of Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings'' 11/01/2013.--This practice 
describes procedures for making joints with polyethylene (PE) pipe and 
fittings by means of heat fusion joining in, but not limited to, a 
field environment. The parameters and procedures are applicable only to 
joining PE pipe and fittings of related polymer chemistry.
     ASTM D2564-12 ``Standard Specification for Solvent Cements 
for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems'' 08/01/2012.--
This specification covers requirements for

[[Page 29269]]

poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) solvent cements to be used in joining poly 
(vinyl chloride) piping systems.
     ASTM F2817-10 ``Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl 
Chloride) (PVC) Gas Pressure Pipe and Fittings For Maintenance or 
Repair'' (PVC components only) 08/01/2013--This specification covers 
requirements for PVC pipe and tubing for use only to maintain or repair 
existing PVC gas piping.
     ASTM F2897-11a ``Standard Specification for Tracking and 
Traceability Encoding System of Natural Gas Distribution Components 
(Pipe, Tubing, Fittings, Valves, and Appurtenances)'' 11/01/2011--This 
specification defines requirements for the data used in the tracking 
and traceability base-62 encoding system and the format of the 
resultant code to characterize various components used in fuel gas 
piping systems.
     ASTM/ANSI F2600-09 ``Standard Specification for 
Electrofusion Type Polyamide-11 Fittings for Outside Diameter 
Controlled Polyamide-11 Pipe and Tubing'' 4/1/2009.--This specification 
covers polyamide-11 electrofusion fittings for use with outside 
diameter-controlled polyamide-11 pipe, covered by Specification D2513. 
Requirements for materials, workmanship, and testing performance are 
included.
     ASTM F2767-12 ``Specification for Electrofusion Type 
Polyamide-12 Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyamide-12 Pipe 
and Tubing for Gas Distribution'' 10/15/2012.--This specification 
applies to polyamide-12 electrofusion fittings for use with outside 
diameter-controlled polyamide-12 pipes, addressed by Specification 
F2785.
     ASTM/ANSI F2145-13 ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 
11 (PA 11) and Polyamide 12 (PA12) Mechanical Fittings for Use on 
Outside Diameter Controlled Polyamide 11 and Polyamide 12 Pipe and 
Tubing'' 05/01/2013.--This specification describes requirements and 
test methods for the qualification of Polyamide 11 (PA 11) bodied 
mechanical fittings for use with outside diameter controlled PA 11, 
nominal 2 pipe size (IPS) and smaller complying with Specification 
D2513. The requirements and test methods for the qualification of 
Polyamide 12 (PA12) bodied mechanical fittings for use with outside 
diameter controlled Polyamide 11 (PA11), nominal 2 in pipe size (IPS) 
and smaller complying with Specification D2513 and outside diameter 
controlled PA12, nominal 2 in pipe size (IPS) and smaller complying 
with Specification F2785. In addition, it specifies general 
requirements of the material from which these fittings are made.
     ASTM/ANSI F1948-12 ``Standard Specification for Metallic 
Mechanical Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter Controlled 
Thermoplastic Gas Distribution Pipe and Tubing'' 04/01/2012.--This 
specification covers requirements and test methods for the 
qualification of metallic mechanical fittings for use with outside 
diameter controlled thermoplastic gas distribution pipe and tubing as 
specified in Specification D2513.
     ASTM F1973-13 ``Standard Specification for Factory 
Assembled Anodeless Risers and Transition Fittings in Polyethylene (PE) 
and Polyamide 11 (PA11) and Polyamide 12 (PA12) Fuel Gas Distribution 
Systems'' 05/01/2013.--This specification covers requirements and test 
methods for the qualification of factory assembled anodeless risers and 
transition fittings, for use in polyethylene (PE), in sizes through NPS 
8, and Polyamide 11 (PA11) and Polyamide 12 (PA12), in sizes through 
NPS 6, gas distribution systems.
     ASME/ANSI B 16.40-08 ``Manually Operated Thermoplastic Gas 
Shutoffs and Valves in Gas Distribution Systems'' 04/30/2008.--This 
standard covers manually operated thermo-plastic valves in nominal 
valve sizes \1/2\ through 12 intended for use below ground in 
thermoplastic fuel gas distribution mains and service lines.
     PPI TR-4/2012 ``PPI Listing of Hydrostatic Design Basis 
(HDB), Hydrostatic Design Stress (HDS), Strength Design Basis (SDB), 
Pressure Design Basis (PDB) and Minimum Required Strength (MRS) Rating 
For Thermoplastic Piping Materials or Pipe.''--This report lists 
thermoplastic piping materials with a Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) 
recommended Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB), Strength Design Basis 
(SDB), Pressure Design Basis (PDB) or Minimum Required Strength (MRS) 
rating for thermoplastic piping materials or pipe. These listings have 
been established in accordance with PPI TR-3.
    PHMSA also proposes to update the following standards which are 
summarized below:
     ASTM F1055-98 (2006) ``Standard Specification for 
Electrofusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter 
Controlled Polyethylene Pipe and Tubing'' This specification covers 
electrofusion polyethylene fittings for use with outside diameter-
controlled polyethylene pipe, covered by Specifications D 2447, D 2513, 
D 2737, D 3035, and F 714. This specification is a 2006 reaffirmed 
version of the 1998 version, meaning the technical content of the 
standard itself hadn't changed but as a matter of process had to be 
reviewed by the ASTM technical committee to keep it active. It should 
be noted there is a more current version of the F1055 standard (ASTM 
F1015-13) but PHMSA has chosen not to propose that version as the name 
and scope have expanded to include Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe 
and Tubing, a material not otherwise recognized in the 49 CFR part 192. 
PHMSA is open to comments on whether or not the latest version should 
be considered; and
     PPI TR-3/2012 ``Policies and Procedures for Developing 
Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB), Hydrostatic Design Stresses (HDS), 
Pressure Design Basis (PDB), Strength Design Basis (SDB), Minimum 
Required Strength (MRS) Ratings, and Categorized Required Strength 
(CRS) for Thermoplastic Piping Materials or Pipe''--This report 
presents the policies and procedures used by the HSB (Hydrostatic 
Stress Board) of PPI (Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc.) to develop 
recommendations of long-term strength ratings for commercial 
thermoplastic piping materials or pipe. This version is an update to 
the 2008 version currently incorporated by reference. A more detailed 
summary of updates to the 2010 version (successor to the 2008 version) 
is available in the 2012 document itself. Recommendations are published 
in PPI TR-4.

I.2. Plastic Pipe Material

    Section 192.59 specifies requirements for plastic pipe materials. 
Paragraph (a) details the qualification-for-use requirements for new 
plastic pipe. PHMSA proposes to add a new paragraph (a)(3) to require 
new plastic pipe be free from visible defects, a requirement consistent 
with a similar requirement already in place for used plastic pipe as 
detailed in paragraph (b)(5). At this time, non-destructive evaluation 
technologies have not been proven to be reliable and effective for 
inspecting plastic pipe. Therefore, visual inspection continues to be 
the primary method for detecting and evaluating defects.
    In Sec.  192.59, paragraph (b) details specific qualification 
requirements for used plastic pipe. Section 192.59(b)(3) specifies that 
used plastic pipe is qualified for use if it has been used only in 
natural gas service. PHMSA believes that used plastic pipe should not 
be limited to ``natural gas'' service but in any ``gas'' service as 
defined in Sec.  192.3. This is consistent with the applicability 
provisions in Sec.  192.1, which specifies

[[Page 29270]]

that part 192 prescribes minimum safety requirements for the 
transportation of ``gas.'' Therefore, PHMSA proposes to revise Sec.  
192.59(b)(3) to replace ``natural gas'' with ``gas.''
    PHMSA is also looking to address some issues surrounding PVC pipe 
and components used for repair situations. Historically, PVC pipe and 
components have technically been allowed by code, including for repair, 
but industry has slowly been phasing out the installation and use of 
PVC piping, including for repair, in favor of other newer and better-
performing plastic materials. PVC components are still used to a larger 
extent, however, as they are not as susceptible to the same issues of 
brittle-like cracking as PVC piping. To align with this shift, PHMSA is 
proposing to add a new Sec.  192.59(e) to explicitly prohibit the use 
of PVC pipe for new installations after the effective date of the rule, 
including for repairs. This new requirement would not prevent the use 
of previously installed PVC pipe, nor would it preclude the use of PVC 
components for the repair of existing PVC pipe. Requirements for PVC 
were previously addressed under ASTM D2513-99, but following the change 
to make ASTM D2513 a PE-only standard, there is now a standalone ASTM 
standard for PVC. For PVC components used to repair existing PVC pipe, 
PHMSA is proposing to incorporate ASTM F2817-10, ``Standard 
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Gas Pressure Pipe and 
Fittings For Maintenance or Repair.''

I.3. Plastic Pipe Storage and Handling

    Currently, the PSR do not directly address the storage and handling 
of plastic pipe other than through standards incorporated by reference. 
In an effort to reduce any confusion regarding the proper storage and 
handling of plastic pipe, PHMSA proposes a new Sec.  192.67. The 
proposed new section would require operators to have written procedures 
for storage and handling that meets the applicable listed 
specification.

I.4. Gathering Lines

    Section 192.9 currently details the requirements applicable to 
gathering lines. In particular, Sec.  192.9(d) specifies the 
requirements for Type B regulated onshore gathering lines. Currently, 
as specified under Sec.  192.9(d)(1), gathering line operators are 
required to comply with the design, installation, construction, initial 
inspection, and initial testing requirements in part 192 applicable to 
transmission lines. This would include plastic pipe requirements such 
as for design (Sec.  192.121), joining (Sec. Sec.  192.281 and 
192.283), and installation (Sec.  192.321). PHMSA believes that this 
information may not be clear since most transmission lines do not 
consist of plastic pipe. Therefore, PHMSA proposes to add a new 
paragraph (d)(7) to specify that such pipelines, if containing plastic 
pipe or components, must comply with all requirements of part 192 
applicable to plastic pipe.

I.5. Merge Sections 192.121 and 192.123

    Currently, Sec.  192.121 specifies the calculations for determining 
the design pressure for plastic pipe, while Sec.  192.123 specifies the 
design limitations for plastic pipe. In an effort to make the PSR 
easier to follow and to increase clarity, PHMSA proposes to merge the 
Sec.  192.123 design limitations into Sec.  192.121. PHMSA also 
proposes to increase the maximum design factor for PE pipe, increase 
the design pressure limitations of PA-11 pipe, and add design factor 
and pressure limitations for the use of PA-12 plastic pipe. These 
proposals would apply to materials produced after the effective date of 
the final rule.

I.6. General Design Requirements for Components (Section 192.143)

    Section 192.143 contains general design provisions for pipeline 
components. For clarification purposes, PHMSA proposes the addition of 
a new paragraph (c) to specify that components used for plastic pipe 
must be able to withstand operating pressures and anticipated loads in 
accordance with a listed specification. Currently, Sec.  192.191 
specifies design pressure requirements for plastic fittings. With the 
addition of Sec.  192.143(c), Sec.  192.191 would be redundant; 
therefore, PHMSA proposes its removal.

I.7. General Design Requirements for Valves (Section 192.145)

    Section 192.145 contains general design provisions for pipeline 
valves. For clarification purposes, PHMSA proposes the addition of a 
new paragraph (f) to specify that plastic valves must meet a ``listed 
specification'' as defined in Sec.  192.3. PHMSA also proposes to 
clarify that plastic valves must not be used in operating conditions 
that exceed the applicable pressure or temperature ratings detailed in 
the applicable listed specification, consistent with language in Sec.  
192.145(a).

I.8. General Design Requirements for Standard Fittings (Section 
192.149)

    Section 192.149 contains general design provisions for pipeline 
fittings. For clarification purposes, PHMSA proposes the addition of a 
new paragraph (c) to specify that a plastic fitting may only be used if 
it meets a listed specification.

I.9. Test Requirements for Plastic Pipelines

    Section 192.513(c) currently states that the test pressure for 
plastic pipelines must be at least 150 percent of the maximum operating 
pressure or 50 psig, whichever is greater, and that the maximum test 
pressure may not be more than 3 times the pressure determined under 
Sec.  192.121. Given the other design limitations in the current Sec.  
192.123 for PE and PA-11, and the revisions being proposed in this rule 
for PE, PA-11, and PA-12, PHMSA believes that plastic pipe will 
potentially be overstressed if tested to 3 times the pressure 
determined under Sec.  192.121. Therefore, PHMSA proposes to revise 
Sec.  192.513(c) so that the maximum limit for test pressure is 2.5 
times the pressure determined under Sec.  192.121.

II. Availability of Standards Incorporated by Reference

    PHMSA currently incorporates by reference into 49 CFR parts 192, 
193, and 195 all or parts of more than 60 standards and specifications 
developed and published by standard developing organizations (SDOs). In 
general, SDOs update and revise their published standards every 3 to 5 
years to reflect modern technology and best technical practices.
    The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (Pub. 
L. 104-113) directs Federal agencies to use voluntary consensus 
standards in lieu of government-written standards whenever possible. 
Voluntary consensus standards are standards developed or adopted by 
voluntary bodies that develop, establish, or coordinate technical 
standards using agreed-upon procedures. In addition, Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB) issued OMB Circular A-119 to implement 
Section 12(d) of Public Law 104-113 relative to the utilization of 
consensus technical standards by Federal agencies. This circular 
provides guidance for agencies participating in voluntary consensus 
standards bodies and describes procedures for satisfying the reporting 
requirements in Public Law 104-113.
    In accordance with the preceding provisions, PHMSA has the 
responsibility for determining, via petitions or otherwise, which 
currently referenced standards should be updated, revised, or removed, 
and which standards should be added to 49 CFR parts 192, 193, and 195. 
Revisions to

[[Page 29271]]

incorporated by reference materials in 49 CFR parts 192, 193, and 195 
are handled via the rulemaking process, which allows for the public and 
regulated entities to provide input. During the rulemaking process, 
PHMSA must also obtain approval from the Office of the Federal Register 
to incorporate by reference any new materials.
    On January 3, 2012, President Obama signed the Pipeline Safety, 
Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011, Public Law 112-90. 
Section 24 states: ``Beginning 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this subsection, the Secretary may not issue guidance or a regulation 
pursuant to this chapter that incorporates by reference any documents 
or portions thereof unless the documents or portions thereof are made 
available to the public, free of charge, on an Internet Web site.'' 49 
U.S.C. 60102(p).
    On August 9, 2013, Public Law 113-30 revised 49 U.S.C. 60102(p) to 
replace ``1 year'' with ``3 years'' and remove the phrases ``guidance 
or'' and ``,on an Internet Web site.'' This resulted in the current 
language in 49 U.S.C. 60102(p), which now reads as follows:
    ``Beginning 3 years after the date of enactment of this subsection, 
the Secretary may not issue a regulation pursuant to this chapter that 
incorporates by reference any documents or portions thereof unless the 
documents or portions thereof are made available to the public, free of 
charge.''
    Further, the Office of the Federal Register issued a November 7, 
2014, rulemaking (79 FR 66278) that revised 1 CFR 51.5 to require that 
agencies detail in the preamble of a proposed rulemaking the ways the 
materials it proposes to incorporate by reference are reasonably 
available to interested parties, or how the agency worked to make those 
materials reasonably available to interested parties. In relation to 
this proposed rulemaking, PHMSA has contacted each SDO and has 
requested a hyperlink to a free copy of each standard that has been 
proposed for incorporation by reference. Access to these standards will 
be granted until the end of the comment period for this proposed 
rulemaking. Access to these documents can be found on the PHMSA Web 
site at the following URL: https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/pipeline/regs under 
``Standards Incorporated by Reference.''

III. Regulatory Analyses and Notices

Summary/Legal Authority for This Rulemaking

    This NPRM is published under the authority of the Federal pipeline 
safety law (49 U.S.C. 60101 et seq.). Section 60102 authorizes the 
Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations governing design, 
installation, inspection, emergency plans and procedures, testing, 
construction, extension, operation, replacement, and maintenance of 
pipeline facilities. Further, Section 60102(l) of the Federal pipeline 
safety law states that the Secretary shall, to the extent appropriate 
and practicable, update incorporated industry standards that have been 
adopted as a part of the PSR. If adopted as proposed, this NPRM would 
modify the PSR applicable to plastic pipe.

Executive Order 12866, Executive Order 13563, and DOT Regulatory 
Policies and Procedures

    This NPRM is not a significant regulatory action under section 3(f) 
of Executive Order 12866 (58 FR 51735) and therefore was not reviewed 
by the Office of Management and Budget. This NPRM is not significant 
under the Regulatory Policies and Procedures of the Department of 
Transportation (44 FR 11034).
    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 require agencies to regulate in 
the ``most cost-effective manner,'' to make a ``reasoned determination 
that the benefits of the intended regulation justify its costs,'' and 
to develop regulations that ``impose the least burden on society.'' 
PHMSA proposes to amend the PSR with regards to plastic pipe to improve 
compliance with these regulations by updating and adding references to 
technical standards and providing clarification. PHMSA anticipates that 
the amendments contained in this NPRM will have economic benefits to 
the regulated community by increasing the clarity of its regulations 
and reducing compliance costs. A copy of the regulatory evaluation is 
available for review in the docket.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires an 
agency to review regulations to assess their impact on small entities, 
unless the agency determines that a rule is not expected to have a 
significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. This 
proposed rule has been developed in accordance with Executive Order 
13272 (``Proper Consideration of Small Entities in Agency Rulemaking'') 
and DOT's procedures and policies to promote compliance with the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act to ensure that potential impacts of draft 
rules on small entities are properly considered.
    While PHMSA does not collect information on the number of employees 
or revenues of pipeline operators, it does continuously seek 
information on the number of small pipeline operators to more fully 
determine any impacts PHMSA's proposed regulations may have on small 
entities. This NPRM proposes to require small and large operators to 
comply with these requirements. A copy of the Initial Regulatory 
Flexibility Analysis has been placed in the docket.

Executive Order 13175

    PHMSA has analyzed this NPRM according to the principles and 
criteria in Executive Order 13175, ``Consultation and Coordination with 
Indian Tribal Governments.'' Because this NPRM does not significantly 
or uniquely affect the communities of the Indian tribal governments or 
impose substantial direct compliance costs, the funding and 
consultation requirements of Executive Order 13175 do not apply.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    This NPRM does not impose any new information collection 
requirements.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    This NPRM does not impose unfunded mandates under the Unfunded 
Mandates Reform Act of 1995. It would not result in costs of $100 
million, adjusted for inflation, or more in any one year to either 
State, local, or tribal governments, in the aggregate, or to the 
private sector, and is the least burdensome alternative that achieves 
the objective of the NPRM.

National Environmental Policy Act

    PHMSA analyzed this proposed rule in accordance with section 
102(2)(c) of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332), 
the Council on Environmental Quality regulations (40 CFR parts 1500-
1508), and DOT Order 5610.1C, and has preliminarily determined that 
this action will not significantly affect the quality of the human 
environment. A preliminary environmental assessment of this rulemaking 
is available in the docket, and PHMSA invites comment on environmental 
impacts of this rule, if any.

Privacy Act Statement

    Anyone may search the electronic form of all comments received for 
any of our dockets. You may review DOT's

[[Page 29272]]

complete Privacy Act Statement published in the Federal Register on 
April 11, 2000 (70 FR 19477).

Executive Order 13132

    PHMSA has analyzed this NPRM according to Executive Order 13132 
(``Federalism''). The NPRM does not have a substantial direct effect on 
the States, the relationship between the national government and the 
States, or the distribution of power and responsibilities among the 
various levels of government. This NPRM does not impose substantial 
direct compliance costs on State and local governments. This NPRM does 
not preempt State law for intrastate pipelines. Therefore, the 
consultation and funding requirements of Executive Order 13132 do not 
apply.

Executive Order 13211

    This NPRM is not a ``significant energy action'' under Executive 
Order 13211 (Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect 
Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use). It is not likely to have a 
significant adverse effect on supply, distribution, or energy use. 
Further, the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has not 
designated this NPRM as a significant energy action.

List of Subjects in 49 CFR Part 192

    Incorporation by reference, Pipeline safety, Plastic pipe, Security 
measures.

    In consideration of the foregoing, PHMSA proposes to amend 49 CFR 
Chapter I as follows:

PART 192--TRANSPORTATION OF NATURAL AND OTHER GAS BY PIPELINE: 
MINIMUM FEDERAL SAFETY STANDARDS

0
1. The authority citation for part 192 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5103, 60102, 60104, 60108, 60109, 60110, 
60113, 60116, and 60118; and 49 CFR 1.97.

0
2. Section 192.3 is revised to add the following definitions in 
appropriate alphabetical order as follows:


Sec.  192.3  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Traceability information means data that is provided within ASTM 
F2897-11a (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7) that indicates 
within the unique identifier, at a minimum, the location of 
manufacture, production, lot information, size, material, pressure 
rating, temperature rating and, as appropriate, type, grade and model 
of pipe and components.
    Tracking information means data that provides for the 
identification of the location of pipe and components, the date 
installed, and the person who made the joints in the pipeline system.
* * * * *
    Weak Link means a device used when pulling polyethylene pipe, 
typically through methods such as horizontal directional drilling, to 
ensure that damage will not occur to the pipeline by exceeding the 
maximum tensile stresses allowed.
0
3. Amend Sec.  192.7 as follows:
0
a. Remove paragraphs (d)(11), (d)(12), (d)(13), (d)(15), (j)(1),
0
b. Redesignate paragraphs (c)(3) through (c)(9) as paragraphs (c)(4)-
(10) and redesignate paragraph (d)(14) as (d)(12).
0
c. Add paragraphs (c)(3), (d)(11), (d)(13) through (d)(25), (j)(1), and 
(j)(2) to read as follows.


Sec.  192.7  What documents are incorporated by reference partly or 
wholly in this part?

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (3) ASME/ANSI B 16.40-08, ``Manually Operated Thermoplastic Gas 
Shutoffs and Valves in Gas Distribution Systems,'' (ASME/ANSI B16.40-
08), IBR approved for Item I, Appendix B to Part 192.
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (11) ASTM D2513-12ae1, ``Standard Specification for Polyethylene 
(PE) Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings,'' (ASTM D2513-12ae1), IBR 
approved for Item I, Appendix B to Part 192.
* * * * *
    (13) ASTM D2564-12, ``Standard Specification for Solvent Cements 
for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems,'' (ASTM D2564-
12), IBR approved for Sec.  192.281(b)(2).
    (14) ASTM F1055-98 (2006), ``Standard Specification for Electro 
fusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled 
Polyethylene Pipe and Tubing,'' (ASTM F1055-98), IBR approved for Item 
I, Appendix B to Part 192.
    (15) ASTM F1924-12, ``Standard Specification for Plastic Mechanical 
Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene Gas 
Distribution Pipe and Tubing,'' (ASTM F1924-12), IBR approved for 
Sec. Sec.  192.281(e); 192.367(b)(3); and Item I, Appendix B to Part 
192.
    (16) ASTM F1948-12, ``Standard Specification for Metallic 
Mechanical Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter Controlled 
Thermoplastic Gas Distribution Pipe and Tubing,'' (ASTM F1948-12), IBR 
approved for Sec. Sec.  192.281(e); 192.367(b)(3); and Item I, Appendix 
B to Part 192.
    (17) ASTM F1973-13, ``Standard Specification for Factory Assembled 
Anodeless Risers and Transition Fittings in Polyethylene (PE) and 
Polyamide 11 (PA 11) and Polyamide 12 (PA 12) Fuel Gas Distribution 
Systems,'' (ASTM F1973-13), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  192.204(b); 
192.281(e); 192.367(b)(3); and Item I, Appendix B to Part 192.
    (18) ASTM/ANSI F2145-13, ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 11 
(PA-11) and Polyamide 12 (PA-12) Mechanical Fittings for Use on Outside 
Diameter Controlled Polyamide 11 and Polyamide 12 Pipe and Tubing,'' 
(ASTM/ANSI F2145-13), IBR approved for Item I, Appendix B to Part 192.
    (19) ASTM/ANSI F2600-09, ``Standard Specification for Electrofusion 
Type Polyamide-11 Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyamide-11 
Pipe and Tubing,'' (ASTM/ANSI F2600-09), IBR approved for Item I, 
Appendix B to Part 192.
    (20) ASTM F2620-12, ``Standard Practice for Heat Fusion Joining of 
Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings,'' (ASTM F2620-12), IBR approved for 
Sec. Sec.  192.281(c) and 192.285(b)(2)(i).
    (21) ASTM F2767-12, ``Specification for Electrofusion Type 
Polyamide-12 Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyamide-12 Pipe 
and Tubing for Gas Distribution,'' (ASTM F2767-12), IBR approved for 
Item I, Appendix B to Part 192.
    (22) ASTM F2785-12, ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 12 Gas 
Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings'' PA-12, (ASTM F2785-12), IBR 
approved for Item I, Appendix B to Part 192.
    (23) ASTM F2817-10, ``Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl 
Chloride) (PVC) Gas Pressure Pipe and Fittings For Maintenance or 
Repair,'' (ASTM F2817-10), IBR approved for Item I, Appendix B to Part 
192.
    (24) ASTM F2897-11a, ``Standard Specification for Tracking and 
Traceability Encoding System of Natural Gas Distribution Components 
(Pipe, Tubing, Fittings, Valves, and Appurtenances),'' (ASTM F2897-
11a), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  192.3 and 192.63(e).
    (25) ASTM F2945-12a ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 11 Gas 
Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings,'' PA-11, (ASTM F2945-12a), IBR 
approved for Item I, Appendix B to Part 192.
* * * * *
    (j) * * *
    (1) PPI TR-3/2012, ``Policies and Procedures for Developing 
Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB), Hydrostatic Design

[[Page 29273]]

Stresses (HDS), Pressure Design Basis (PDB), Strength Design Basis 
(SDB), Minimum Required Strength (MRS) Ratings, and Categorized 
Required Strength (CRS) for Thermoplastic Piping Materials or Pipe,'' 
(PPI TR-3/2012), IBR approved for Sec.  192.121.
    (2) PPI TR-4/2012, ``PPI Listing of Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB), 
Hydrostatic Design Stress (HDS), Strength Design Basis (SDB), Pressure 
Design Basis (PDB) and Minimum Required Strength (MRS) Rating For 
Thermoplastic Piping Materials or Pipe,'' (PPI TR-4/2012), IBR approved 
for Sec.  192.121.
0
4. In Sec.  192.9, paragraphs (d)(5) and (d)(6) are revised and 
paragraph (d)(7) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.9  What requirements apply to gathering lines?

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (5) Establish the MAOP of the line under Sec.  192.619;
    (6) Install and maintain line markers according to the requirements 
for transmission lines in Sec.  192.707; and
    (7) If the pipeline contains plastic pipe or components, the 
operator must comply with all applicable requirements of this part for 
plastic pipe and components.
* * * * *
0
5. In Sec.  192.59, paragraphs (a)(1), (a)(2), and (b)(3) are revised 
and paragraphs (a)(3) and (e) are added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.59  Plastic pipe.

    (a) * * *
    (1) It is manufactured in accordance with a listed specification;
    (2) It is resistant to chemicals with which contact may be 
anticipated; and
    (3) It is free of visible defects.
    (b) * * *
    (3) It has been used only in gas service;
* * * * *
    (e) Except for PVC fittings used for repairs on existing PVC 
pipelines with materials manufactured in accordance with the listed 
specification, PVC pipe cannot be used.
0
6. In Sec.  192.63, paragraph (a) is revised and paragraph (e) is added 
to read as follows:


Sec.  192.63  Marking of materials.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, each 
valve, fitting, length of pipe, and other component must be marked as 
prescribed in the specification or standard to which it was 
manufactured.
* * * * *
    (e) Additional requirements for plastic pipe and components.
    (1) All markings on plastic pipe prescribed in the listed 
specification and the requirements of paragraph (e)(2) shall be 
repeated at intervals not exceeding 2 feet.
    (2) Plastic pipe and components manufactured after [INSERT 
EFFECTIVE DATE OF FINAL RULE], must be marked in accordance with ASTM 
F2897 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7) in addition to the 
listed specification.
    (3) All markings on plastic pipelines prescribed in the 
specification and paragraph (e)(2) shall be legible, visible, and 
permanent in accordance with the listed specification. Records of 
markings prescribed in the specification and paragraph (e)(2) shall be 
maintained for the life the pipeline per the requirements of Sec. Sec.  
192.321(k) and 192.375(d).
0
7. Section 192.67 is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.67  Storage and handling for plastic pipelines.

    Each operator must develop and follow written procedures for the 
storage and handling of plastic pipe and/or associated components that 
meet the applicable listed specifications.
0
8. Section 192.121 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  192.121  Design of plastic pipe.

    (a) Design formula. Design formulas for plastic pipe are determined 
in accordance with either of the following formulas:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP21MY15.013

Q P=04>P = Design pressure, gage, psi (kPa).
S = For thermoplastic pipe, the HDB is determined in accordance with 
the listed specification at a temperature equal to 73 [deg]F (23 
[deg]C), 100 [deg]F (38 [deg]C), 120 [deg]F (49 [deg]C), or 140 
[deg]F (60 [deg]C). In the absence of an HDB established at the 
specified temperature, the HDB of a higher temperature may be used 
in determining a design pressure rating at the specified temperature 
by arithmetic interpolation using the procedure in Part D.2 of PPI 
TR-3, (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7). For reinforced 
thermosetting plastic pipe, 11,000 psig (75,842 kPa).
t = Specified wall thickness, inches (mm).
D = Specified outside diameter, inches (mm).
SDR = Standard dimension ratio, the ratio of the average specified 
outside diameter to the minimum specified wall thickness, 
corresponding to a value from a common numbering system that was 
derived from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 
preferred number series 10.
DF = Design Factor, a maximum of 0.32 unless otherwise specified for 
a particular material in this section.

    (b) General requirements for plastic pipe and components. (1) 
Except as provided in paragraphs (c) through (f) of this section, the 
design pressure for plastic pipe may not exceed a gauge pressure of 100 
psig (689 kPa) for pipe used in:
    (i) Distribution systems; or
    (ii) Transmission lines in Class 3 and 4 locations.
    (2) Plastic pipe may not be used where operating temperatures of 
the pipe will be:
    (i) Below -20 [deg]F (-29 [deg]C), or -40 [deg]F (-40 [deg]C) if 
all pipe and pipeline components whose operating temperature will be 
below -20 [deg]F (-29 [deg]C) have a temperature rating by the 
manufacturer consistent with that operating temperature; or
    (ii) Above the temperature at which the HDB used in the design 
formula under this section is determined.
    (3) Unless specified for a particular material in this section, the 
wall thickness for plastic pipe may not be less than 0.062 inches (1.57 
millimeters).
    (4) All plastic pipe must have a listed HDB in accordance with PPI 
TR-4 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    (c) Polyethylene (PE) pipe requirements. (1) For PE pipe produced 
between July 14, 2004, and [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF FINAL RULE], a 
design pressure of up to 125 psig may be used, provided:
    (i) The material designation code is a PE2406 or PE3408.
    (ii) The pipe has a nominal size (IPS or CTS) of 12 inches or less 
(above nominal pipe size of 12 inches, the design pressure is limited 
to 100 psig); and
    (iii) The wall thickness is not less than 0.062 inches (1.57 
millimeters).
    (2) For PE pipe produced after [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF FINAL 
RULE], a DF of 0.40 may be used in the design formula, provided:
    (i) The design pressure is limited to 125 psig;
    (ii) The material designation code is PE2708 or PE4710;
    (iii) The pipe has a nominal size (IPS or CTS) of 12 inches or 
less; and
    (iv) The wall thickness for a given outside diameter is not less 
than that listed in the following table:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Minimum wall
          Pipe size in inches             thickness  in   Corresponding
                                             inches         DR values
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1/2\'' CTS............................           0.090              7

[[Page 29274]]

 
\3/4\'' CTS............................           0.090              9.7
\1/2\'' IPS............................           0.090              9.3
\3/4\'' IPS............................           0.095             11
1'' IPS................................           0.119             11
1 \1/4\'' IPS..........................           0.151             11
1 \1/2\'' IPS..........................           0.173             11
2''....................................           0.216             11
3''....................................           0.259             13.5
4''....................................           0.265             17
6''....................................           0.315             21
8''....................................           0.411             21
10''...................................           0.512             21
12''...................................           0.607             21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Polyamide (PA-11) pipe requirements. (1) For PA-11 pipe 
produced between January 23, 2009, and [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF FINAL 
RULE], a DF of 0.40 may be used in the design formula, provided:
    (i) The design pressure is limited to 200 psig;
    (ii) The material designation code is PA32312 or PA32316;
    (iii) The pipe has a nominal size (IPS or CTS) of 4 inches or less; 
and
    (iv) The pipe has a standard dimension ratio of SDR-11 or less 
(i.e., thicker-wall pipe).
    (2) For PA-11 pipe produced on or after [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF 
FINAL RULE], a DF of 0.40 may be used in the design formula, provided:
    (i) The design pressure is limited to 250 psig;
    (ii) The material designation code is PA32316;
    (iii) The pipe has a nominal size (IPS or CTS) of 6 inches or less; 
and
    (iv) The minimum wall thickness for a given outside diameter is not 
less than that listed in the following table:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Minimum wall
          Pipe size  (inches)               thickness     Corresponding
                                            (inches)       DR  (values)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1'' IPS................................           0.119             11
1 \1/4\'' IPS..........................           0.151             11
1 \1/2\'' IPS..........................           0.173             11
2''....................................           0.216             11
3''....................................           0.259             13.5
4''....................................           0.333             13.5
6''....................................           0.491             13.5
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (e) Polyamide (PA-12) pipe requirements. For PA-12 pipe produced 
after [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF FINAL RULE], a DF of 0.40 may be used 
in the design formula, provided:
    (1) The design pressure is limited to 250 psig;
    (2) The pipe has a nominal size (IPS or CTS) of 6 inches or less; 
and
    (3) The minimum wall thickness for a given outside diameter is not 
less than that listed in the following table.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        Minimum wall
         Pipe size  (inches)              thickness       Corresponding
                                          (inches)        SDR  (values)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 IPS....................             0.119                11
1 \1/4\ IPS..............             0.151                11
1 \1/2\ IPS..............             0.173                11
2........................             0.216                11
3........................             0.259              13.5
4........................             0.333              13.5
6........................             0.491              13.5
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (f) Reinforced thermosetting plastic pipe requirements.
    (i) Reinforced thermosetting plastic pipe may not be used at 
operating temperatures above 150[emsp14][deg]F (66 [deg]C).
    (ii) The wall thickness for reinforced thermosetting plastic pipe 
may not be less than that listed in the following table:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Minimum wall
        Nominal size in inches  (millimeters).          thickness inches
                                                          (millimeters).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 (51)................................................      0.060 (1.52)
3 (76)................................................      0.060 (1.52)
4 (102)...............................................      0.070 (1.78)
6 (152)...............................................      0.100 (2.54)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec.  192.123  [Removed and Reserved].

0
9. Section 192.123 is removed and reserved.
0
10. In Sec.  192.143, paragraph (c) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.143  General requirements.

* * * * *
    (c) Each plastic component of a pipeline must be able to withstand 
operating pressures and other anticipated loads in accordance with a 
listed specification.
0
11. In Sec.  192.145, paragraph (f) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.145  Valves.

* * * * *
    (f) Plastic valves must meet the minimum requirements stipulated in 
a listed specification. A valve may not be used under operating 
conditions that exceed the applicable pressure and temperature ratings 
contained in those requirements.
0
12. In Sec.  192.149, paragraph (c) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.149  Standard fittings.

* * * * *
    (c) Plastic fittings must meet a listed specification.


Sec.  192.191  [Removed and Reserved].

0
13. Section 192.191 is removed and reserved.
0
14. Section 192.204 is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.204  Risers.

    (a) The design shall be tested to ensure safe performance under 
anticipated external and internal loads acting on the assembly.
    (b) Risers shall be designed and tested in accordance with ASTM 
F1973 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    (c) All risers connected to plastic mains and used on regulator 
stations must be rigid and have a minimum 3 ft. horizontal base leg 
designed to provide adequate support and resist lateral movement. Riser 
design shall be tested and accepted in accordance with ASTM F1973 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
0
15. In Sec.  192.281, paragraphs (b)(2),(b)(3), and (c) are revised and 
paragraphs (e)(3) and (e)(4) are added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.281  Plastic Pipe.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) The solvent cement must conform to ASTM D2564-12 for PVC 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    (3) The joint may not be heated or cooled to accelerate the setting 
of the cement.
    (c) Heat-fusion joints. Each heat fusion joint on a plastic pipe 
and/or component must comply with ASTM 2620-12 (incorporated by 
reference in Sec.  192.7) and the following:
    (1) A butt heat-fusion joint must be joined by a device that holds 
the heater element square to the ends of the pipe and/or component, 
compresses the heated ends together, and holds the pipe in proper 
alignment in accordance with the qualified procedures.

[[Page 29275]]

    (2) A socket heat-fusion joint equal to or less than 1\1/4\-inches 
must be joined by a device that heats the mating surfaces of the pipe 
and/or component, uniformly and simultaneously, to establish the same 
temperature. The device used must be the same device specified in the 
operator's joining procedure for socket fusion. A socket heat-fusion 
joint may not be joined on a pipe and/or component greater than 1\1/4\ 
inches.
    (3) An electrofusion joint must be made utilizing the equipment and 
techniques prescribed by the fitting manufacturer, or utilizing 
equipment and techniques shown, by testing joints to the requirements 
of Sec.  192.283(b) to be equivalent to or better than the requirements 
of the fitting manufacturer.
    (4) Heat may not be applied with a torch or other open flame.
* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (3) All mechanical fittings must meet a listed specification based 
upon the pipe material.
    (4) All mechanical joints or fittings shall be Category 1 as 
defined by ASTM F1924, ASTM F1948, or ASTM F1973 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7) for the applicable material, providing a 
seal plus resistance to a force on the pipe joint equal to or greater 
than that which will cause no less than 25% elongation of pipe, or the 
pipe fails outside the joint area if tested in accordance with the 
applicable standard.
0
16. Section 192.283 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  192.283  Plastic pipe: Qualifying joining procedures.

    (a) Heat fusion, solvent cement, and adhesive joints. Before any 
written procedure established under Sec.  192.273(b) is used for making 
plastic pipe joints by a heat fusion, solvent cement, or adhesive 
method, the procedure must be qualified by subjecting specimen joints 
made according to the procedure to the following tests as applicable:
    (1) The test requirements of--
    (i) In the case of thermoplastic pipe, based upon the pipe 
material, the Sustained Pressure Test or the Minimum Hydrostatic Burst 
Test per the listed specification requirements. Additionally, for 
electrofusion joints, based upon the pipe material, the Tensile 
Strength Test or the Joint Integrity Test per the listed specification.
    (ii) In the case of thermosetting plastic pipe, paragraph 8.5 
(Minimum Hydrostatic Burst Pressure) or paragraph 8.9 (Sustained Static 
Pressure Test) of ASTM D2517 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
192.7).
    (2) For procedures intended for lateral pipe connections, subject a 
specimen joint made from pipe sections joined at right angles according 
to the procedure to a force on the lateral pipe until failure occurs in 
the specimen. If failure initiates outside the joint area, the 
procedure qualifies for use.
    (3) For procedures intended for non-lateral pipe connections, 
perform testing in accordance to a listed specification. If elongation 
of the test specimen of no more than 25% or failure initiates outside 
the joint area, the procedure qualifies for use.
    (b) Mechanical joints. Before any written procedure established 
under Sec.  192.273(b) is used for making mechanical plastic pipe 
joints, the procedure must be qualified in accordance with a listed 
specification, based upon the pipe material.
    (c) A copy of each written procedure being used for joining plastic 
pipe must be available to the persons making and inspecting joints.
0
17. In Sec.  192.285, paragraph (b)(2)(i) is revised to read as 
follows:


Sec.  192.285  Plastic pipe: Qualifying persons to make joints.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) Tested under any one of the test methods listed under Sec.  
192.283(a) or the inspection and test set forth in accordance with ASTM 
F2620-12 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7) applicable to the 
type of joint and material being tested;
* * * * *
0
18. Section 192.311 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  192.311  Repair of plastic pipelines.

    (a) Each imperfection or damage that would impair the 
serviceability of plastic pipe must be repaired or removed.
    (b) All scratches or gouges exceeding 10% of wall thickness of pipe 
and/or components shall be repaired or removed.
0
19. In Sec.  192.313, a new paragraph (d) added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.313  Bends and elbows.

* * * * *
    (d) Plastic pipe may not be installed containing bends that exceed 
the maximum radius specified by the manufacturer for the diameter of 
the pipe being installed.
0
20. In Sec.  192.321, paragraphs (a), (d), (f), and (h)(3) are revised 
and paragraphs (i), (j), and (k) are added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.321  Installation of plastic pipelines.

    (a) Plastic pipe must be installed below ground level except as 
provided by paragraphs (g), (h), and (j) of this section.
* * * * *
    (d) Plastic pipe must have a minimum wall thickness of 0.090 inches 
(2.29 millimeters).
* * * * *
    (f) Plastic pipe that is being encased must be inserted into the 
casing pipe in a manner that will protect the plastic. Plastic pipe 
that is being encased must be protected from damage at all entrance and 
all exit points of the casing. The leading end of the plastic must be 
closed before insertion.
* * * * *
    (h) * * *
    (3) Not allowed to exceed the pipe temperature limits specified in 
Sec.  192.121.
    (i) Backfill material must:
    (1) Not contain materials that could be detrimental to the pipe, 
such as rocks of a size exceeding those established through sound 
engineering practices; and
    (2) Be properly compacted underneath, along the sides, and for 
predetermined distance above the pipe.
    (j) Plastic mains may terminate above ground level provided they 
comply with the following:
    (1) The aboveground level part of the plastic main is protected 
against deterioration and external damage.
    (2) The plastic main is not used to support external loads.
    (3) Installations of risers at regulator stations must meet the 
design requirements of Sec.  192.204.
    (k) Tracking and Traceability. Each operator must maintain records 
for tracking and traceability information (as defined in Sec.  192.3) 
for the life of the pipeline.
0
21. Section 192.329 is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.329  Installation of plastic pipelines by trenchless 
excavation.

    Plastic pipelines installed by trenchless excavation must comply 
with the following:
    (a) Each operator shall ensure that the path of the excavation will 
provide sufficient clearance for installation and maintenance 
activities from other underground utilities and/or structures.
    (b) For each pipeline section, plastic pipe and/or components that 
are pulled through the ground must have a weak link, as defined by 
Sec.  192.3, installed to ensure the pipeline will not be damaged

[[Page 29276]]

by any excessive forces during the pulling process.
0
22. In Sec.  192.367, paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) are revised and 
paragraph (b)(3) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.367  Service lines: General requirements for connections to 
main piping.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) Be designed and installed to effectively sustain the 
longitudinal pull-out or thrust forces caused by contraction or 
expansion of the piping, or by anticipated external or internal 
loading;
    (2) If gaskets are used in connecting the service line to the main 
connection fitting, have gaskets that are compatible with the kind of 
gas in the system; and
    (3) If used on pipelines comprised of plastic, be a Category 1 
connection as defined by ASTM F1924, ASTM F1948, or ASTM F1973 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7) for the applicable 
material, providing a seal plus resistance to a force on the pipe joint 
equal to or greater than that which will cause no less than 25% 
elongation of pipe, or the pipe fails outside the joint area if tested 
in accordance with the applicable standard.
0
23. In Sec.  192.375, paragraph (a)(2) is revised and paragraphs (c) 
and (d) are added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.375  Service lines: Plastic.

    (a) * * *
    (2) It may terminate above ground level and outside the building, 
if--
    (i) The aboveground level part of the plastic service line is 
protected against deterioration and external damage;
    (ii) The plastic service line is not used to support external 
loads; and
    (iii) The riser portion of the service line meets the design 
requirements of Sec.  192.204.
* * * * *
    (c) Backfill material must:
    (1) Not contain materials that could be detrimental to the pipe, 
such as rocks of a size exceeding those established through sound 
engineering practices; and
    (2) Be properly compacted underneath, along the sides, and for 
predetermined distance above the pipe.
    (d) Tracking and Traceability. Each operator must maintain records 
for tracking and traceability information (as defined in Sec.  192.3) 
for the life of the pipeline.
0
24. Section 192.376 is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.376  Installation of plastic service lines by trenchless 
excavation.

    Plastic service lines installed by trenchless excavation must 
comply with the following:
    (a) Each operator shall ensure that the path of the excavation will 
provide sufficient clearance for installation and maintenance 
activities from other underground utilities and/or structures.
    (b) For each pipeline section, plastic pipe and/or components that 
are pulled through the ground must have a weak link, as defined by 
Sec.  192.3, installed to ensure the pipeline will not be damaged by 
any excessive forces during the pulling process.
0
25. In Sec.  192.455, paragraph (g) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.455  External corrosion control: Buried or submerged 
pipelines installed after July 31, 1971.

* * * * *
    (g) Electrically isolated metal alloy fittings in plastic pipelines 
under this section not meeting the criteria contained in paragraph (f) 
must be cathodically protected and monitored in accordance with this 
section and Sec.  192.465(a).
0
26. In Sec.  192.513, paragraph (c) is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  192.513  Test requirements for plastic pipelines.

* * * * *
    (c) The test pressure must be at least 150 percent of the maximum 
operating pressure or 50 p.s.i. (345 kPa) gage, whichever is greater. 
However, the maximum test pressure may not be more than 2.5 times the 
pressure determined under Sec.  192.121 at a temperature not less than 
the pipe temperature during the test.
* * * * *
0
27. Section 192.720 is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.720  Distribution systems: Leak repair.

    A leak repair clamp may not be used as a permanent repair method 
for plastic pipe.
0
28. Section 192.756 is added to read as follows:


Sec.  192.756  Joining plastic pipe by heat fusion; equipment 
maintenance and calibration.

    (a) Each operator must maintain equipment used in joining plastic 
pipe in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended practices or 
with written procedures that have been proven by test and experience to 
produce acceptable joints.
    (b) Each operator must calibrate and test all equipment used to 
join plastic pipe in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section. The 
calibration must be appropriate for the use of the equipment and/or is 
within the acceptable tolerance limit of that equipment as stated by 
the manufacturer.
    (c) The term ``equipment,'' as specified in this section, includes, 
but is not limited to, fusion equipment, alignment equipment, facing 
and adaptor equipment, heater plates, and gauging devices.
    (d) The operator must maintain records of these tests and 
calibrations (other than daily verifications and adjustments) for the 
life of the pipeline.
0
29. In Appendix B to Part 192, the title of Appendix B and the list 
under ``I.'' is revised to read as follows:

Appendix B to Part 192--Qualification of Pipe and Components

I. List of Specifications

A. Listed Pipe Specifications

    API 5L--Steel pipe, ``API Specification for Line Pipe'' 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM A53/A53M--Steel pipe, ``Standard Specification for Pipe, 
Steel Black and Hot-Dipped, Zinc-Coated, Welded and Seamless'' 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM A106--Steel pipe, ``Standard Specification for Seamless 
Carbon Steel Pipe for High Temperature Service'' (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM A333/A333M--Steel pipe, ``Standard Specification for 
Seamless and Welded Steel Pipe for Low Temperature Service'' 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM A381--Steel pipe, ``Standard Specification for Metal-Arc-
Welded Steel Pipe for Use with High-Pressure Transmission Systems'' 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM A671--Steel pipe, ``Standard Specification for Electric-
Fusion-Welded Pipe for Atmospheric and Lower Temperatures'' 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM A672--Steel pipe, ``Standard Specification for Electric-
Fusion-Welded Steel Pipe for High-Pressure Service at Moderate 
Temperatures'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM A691--Steel pipe, ``Standard Specification for Carbon and 
Alloy Steel Pipe, Electric-Fusion-Welded for High Pressure Service 
at High Temperatures'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM D2513-12ae1, ``Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) 
Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings'' (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM D2517--Thermosetting plastic pipe and tubing, ``Standard 
Specification for Reinforced Epoxy Resin Gas Pressure Pipe and 
Fittings'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM F2785-12, ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 12 Gas 
Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings'' (PA-12) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).

[[Page 29277]]

    ASTM F2945-12a, ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 11 Gas 
Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings'' (PA-11) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).

B. Other Listed Specifications for Components

    ASME/ANSI B16.40-08, ``Manually Operated Thermoplastic Gas 
Shutoffs and Valves in Gas Distribution Systems'' (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM D2513-12ae1, ``Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) 
Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings'' (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM D2517--Thermosetting plastic pipe and tubing, ``Standard 
Specification for Reinforced Epoxy Resin Gas Pressure Pipe and 
Fittings'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM F2785-12, ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 12 Gas 
Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings'' (PA-12) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM F2945-12a, ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 11 Gas 
Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings'' (PA-11) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM F1055-98 (2006), ``Standard Specification for Electrofusion 
Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled 
Polyethylene Pipe and Tubing'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
192.7).
    ASTM F1924-12, ``Standard Specification for Plastic Mechanical 
Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene Gas 
Distribution Pipe and Tubing'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
192.7).
    ASTM/ANSI F1948-12, ``Standard Specification for Metallic 
Mechanical Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter Controlled 
Thermoplastic Gas Distribution Pipe and Tubing'' (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM F1973-13, ``Standard Specification for Factory Assembled 
Anodeless Risers and Transition Fittings in Polyethylene (PE) and 
Polyamide 11 (PA 11) and Polyamide 12 (PA 12) Fuel Gas Distribution 
Systems'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM/ANSI F2600-09, ``Standard Specification for Electrofusion 
Type Polyamide-11 Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled 
Polyamide-11 Pipe and Tubing'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
192.7).
    ASTM/ANSI F2145-13, ``Standard Specification for Polyamide 11 
(PA-11) and Polyamide 12 (PA-12) Mechanical Fittings for Use on 
Outside Diameter Controlled Polyamide 11 and Polyamide 12 Pipe and 
Tubing'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
    ASTM F2767-12, ``Specification for Electrofusion Type Polyamide-
12 Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyamide-12 Pipe and 
Tubing for Gas Distribution'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
192.7).
    ASTM F2817-10, ``Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl 
Chloride) (PVC) Gas Pressure Pipe and Fittings for Maintenance or 
Repair'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  192.7).
* * * * *


    Issued in Washington, DC, on May 14, 2015, under authority 
delegated in 49 CFR 1.97.
Jeffrey D. Wiese,
Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety.
[FR Doc. 2015-12113 Filed 5-20-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-60-P